That is not as severe as thought when Torres slumped to the ground late in extra time of Spain's victory over Holland in Johannesburg. A statement on the FSF website confirmed the details had now been passed on to the Anfield club.

Liverpool medical staff are now meeting the player, who is in his homeland at the start of his summer break, to assess the injury themselves and determine his likely lay-off.

News that Torres, 26, could miss the pre-season campaign is a blow to new manager Roy Hodgson, particularly with a Europa League qualifier to play this month, but he will be pleased his absence is not longer.

Torres was hampered by injuries last season, having a spell out with a groin problem and then having two knee operations.

He was still the club's top goalscorer with 22 but lacked match sharpness throughout the World Cup and endured a disappointing tournament on a personal level.